Healesville Showgrounds Dog Off Leash Area

A large, flat off-leash run tucked into the south-west corner of the Healesville Showgrounds on Don Road, with plenty of open grass for a dog that needs to stretch out. The defining feature is space: this is a recreation reserve, so the off-leash zone shares ground with ovals and event areas, which means the boundaries matter as much as the room to run.

The rules. Off-leash is permitted in the designated south-west area only. Dogs must be on-leash in the car parks, on the approach paths, and anywhere near the ovals, netball courts, or horse event areas, where they are not allowed at all. Voice control is required off-leash, and you carry bags and clean up.

What's there. A dog water tap near the netball pavilion, some natural shade though much of it is open, and a gravel path running through part of the area. Public toilets sit between the ovals and at the southern end of the lake, with bins usually nearby.

Getting there. The Showgrounds are at 202 Don Road, signposted off the B360, with on-site parking near the sporting facilities. If you are coming by public transport, the nearest line runs to Lilydale, then bus 685 into Healesville, with a walk or short taxi out to Don Road from the town centre.

The ground turns boggy through winter and spring, so bring a towel for the car. Weekday mornings and early afternoons are the quiet windows; weekend mornings around 8 to 10 are the social peak.

Sources

• People and Dogs in Parks Plan - Shaping Yarra Ranges · shaping.yarraranges.vic.gov.au

Compiled from public sources and verified listings. Always confirm current rules with the venue or council before you travel.